State Owned Enterprises the world over are attaining more relevance and significance, especially in the wake of the global financial meltdown of 2008. In spite of the recession, Kerala's SOEs have performed remarkably well due to the strategic initiatives adopted in its governance.

It is in this context that the Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Kerala is organizing an International Conference on Resurgence of State Owned Enterprises on the 10th and 11th of December 2010 at Kovalam, Kerala. The conference is a setting for meaningful dialogue on the relevance of State Owned Enterprises internationally, while also showcasing Kerala's achievements in this realm.

I wish the conference success in its objectives and hope that it will, in the coming years, transform itself into a platform for Governments for the advancement of State Owned Enterprises.